DIETARY PRACTICES AND NUTRITIONAL STATUS OF NON-SHIFT WORKERS IN OGBOMOSHO NORTH L.G.A, OYO STATE, NIGERIA
Abstract
This study investigated the dietary practices and nutrient intake of non-shift workers
in Ogbomosho North Local Government Area, Oyo State, Nigeria. Non-shift workers
form a large proportion of the urban workforce, and their nutritional behavior directly
affects health and productivity. With growing concerns about overweight, obesity, and
micronutrient deficiencies in Nigeria, the study sought to provide evidence on the
quality of diets and nutritional well-being within this group.
The objectives were to evaluate the dietary practices of non-shift workers and assess
their energy and nutrient intake. A cross-sectional design was used to collect data
from 200 respondents through interviewer-administered questionnaires, 24-hour
dietary recalls, and anthropometric measurements. Meal patterns, food consumption,
and nutrient intake were documented, while height, weight, and body circumferences
were measured to determine nutritional status.
Findings showed that while most respondents consumed three meals daily, their diets
were dominated by carbohydrate-rich foods with limited intake of fruits, vegetables,
and micronutrient-dense options. The mean daily carbohydrate intake was 387.9 g,
while protein intake averaged 74.6 g. Fat consumption was adequate, but intakes of
vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and potassium were inadequate for many respondents.
Conversely, sodium intake was excessive, with some individuals consuming levels far
above recommended limits. Anthropometric results revealed a high prevalence of
overweight and obesity, reflecting the double burden of malnutrition characterized by
both nutrient deficiencies and excess weight.
In conclusion, the study found that non-shift workers in Ogbomosho North LGA
exhibit dietary practices that predispose them to nutritional inadequacies and dietrelated health risks. The results highlight the need for targeted nutrition education,
dietary diversification, and workplace wellness initiatives to improve overall health
and reduce the risk of chronic diseases among this population.
Full-Text Access Notice
In accordance with the NERD Policy on promoting peer-reviewed publication, public access to the full text of a project, thesis or dissertation is restricted for three years, allowing the author and supervisors sufficient time to pursue peer-reviewed publication.
During this period, researchers with legitimate academic or research purposes may request authorisation directly from the author to enable NERD to release the indexed full texts of the work using the form below.